There are two consequences in history; an immediate one, which is instantly recognized, and one in the distance, which is not at first perceived. These consequences often contradict each other; ... look to the end of an accomplished fact, and you will see that it has always produced the contrary of what was expected from it.

Let us not disdain glory too much; nothing is finer, except virtue. The height of happiness would be to unite both in this life.

Forests were the first temples of the Divinity, and it is in the forests that men have grasped the first idea of architecture.

One is not superior merely because one sees the world as odious.

Music is the child of prayer, the companion of religion.

Love decreases when it ceases to increase.

Alexander created cities everywhere he passed: I have left dreams everywhere I have trailed my life.